National Heritage Week returns from 15th to 23rd August 2026, bringing a packed programme of events that celebrate the rich history, culture and traditions of the Boyne Valley. Across Counties Meath and Louth, visitors can enjoy guided walks, archaeological experiences, fascinating talks, live performances, family activities and opportunities to explore some of Ireland's most remarkable historic sites.
Whether you're uncovering the stories behind ancient passage tombs, learning about medieval towns, discovering local folklore or experiencing hands on history, Heritage Week offers something for every age and interest. Many events are free to attend, making it the perfect opportunity to discover the people, places and heritage that have shaped the Boyne Valley over thousands of years.
Here are just some of the fantastic Heritage Week events taking place across the region.
A Study of Marsh and Alluvial Woodlands Along the Boyne SAC
23rd August | 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Highlanes Gallery, 36 Laurence Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth
Discover the fascinating relationship between nature, archaeology and local history during this illustrated lecture with environmentalist Tony Conaghy and archaeologist Dr Geraldine Stout.
Funded through the Peatlands & Natural Community Engagement Scheme 2026 in partnership with Drogheda Tidy Towns, the project explores both the natural and human history of the Boyne and Blackwater Special Area of Conservation. Presented as part of Highlanes Gallery's Climate Policy and Action Plan, this engaging talk highlights the importance of protecting one of the Boyne Valley's most valuable natural environments.
Find out more HERE!
Talk and Tour of Kells Printing Works
15th-23rd of August | 10am-11am
Come and explore the new Kells Printing Works and take a step back in time when the written word was crafted by hand, ink and iron. You will learn about the entire traditional printing process and see our collection of historic cast iron presses. Free event but booking is required.
Find out more and book your place here.
Drogheda Brass Band Courtyard Performance
16th August | 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Highlanes Gallery, 36 Laurence Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth
Enjoy an afternoon of live music as the renowned Drogheda Brass Band performs in the courtyard of Highlanes Gallery.
Founded in 1886, the band has entertained generations with its rich musical tradition. Their Heritage Week performance brings the sounds of brass music to Laurence Street, creating a lively atmosphere in the heart of Drogheda. This is a standing outdoor event with audiences gathering in the upper courtyard.
Find out more HERE!
Farm and Country Life Museum Open Day
23rd August | 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival, Donore, Moynalty, Co. Meath
Step back in time and discover one of Ireland's finest collections celebrating rural life and farming heritage.
The purpose built museum houses more than 1,000 artefacts including portable steam engines, horse drawn machinery, threshing equipment, traditional hand tools, a shoemaker's workshop, printing press, vintage radios, household collections and a beautifully recreated country kitchen. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience the traditions that shaped rural communities across the Boyne Valley.
Find out more HERE!
Folklore Tour of Loughcrew
15th, 16th & 22nd August | 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Loughcrew Cairns, Corstown, Oldcastle, Co. Meath
Experience the myths and legends that surround the ancient passage tombs of Loughcrew during this guided folklore tour.
Learn about the stories of the Cailleach and Fionn Mac Cumhaill while taking in one of Ireland's most spectacular prehistoric landscapes. Tours begin at Cairn T on Carnbane East, with a short uphill walk from the car park. Suitable footwear and weather appropriate clothing are recommended.
Find out more HERE!
Get Hands on with Heritage
21st August | 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Loughcrew Cairns Car Park, Corstown, Oldcastle, Co. Meath
Travel back to the Stone Age with this interactive exhibition from Cavan County Museum.
Visitors can handle replica prehistoric tools and discover how Ireland's first farmers lived and worked. Learn about the technologies used by the builders of Loughcrew's remarkable passage tombs while gaining a deeper understanding of Neolithic life. This outdoor event takes place in the car park at Loughcrew.
Find out more HERE!
Hands on History: Medieval Meath
22nd August | 1:30pm to 3:00pm
Navan Library, Railway Street, Navan, Co. Meath
Discover the fascinating story of medieval Meath through archaeology, living history and hands on activities.
Presented by Explore Archaeology, this interactive event explores the county's medieval towns and the impact of the Anglo Normans following their arrival in Ireland.
Participants can examine archaeological artefacts, learn fascinating historical facts and enjoy a themed craft activity. Suitable for children aged seven years and over.
Find out more HERE!
Nano Reid – A Life in Paint Walking Tour
21st August | 1:00pm to 2:15pm
Highlanes Gallery, Drogheda, Co. Louth
Join Community Historian Brendan Matthews for a walking tour celebrating the life and work of one of Ireland's most celebrated artists.
Beginning at Highlanes Gallery, this guided walk follows the streets of Drogheda that inspired Nano Reid throughout her life. Along the way, visitors will gain insight into her artistic legacy while learning about the town that helped shape her remarkable career.
Find out more HERE!
Slane Castle Historic Tours
16th to 18th August
9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm & 3:00pm
Slane Castle, Slane, Co. Meath
Explore one of Ireland's most iconic historic estates during a guided tour of Slane Castle.
Home to the Conyngham family since 1703, visitors will discover centuries of fascinating history while learning about the castle's architecture, colourful family stories and the legendary concerts that have welcomed some of the world's biggest music stars.
Find out more HERE!
Medieval Town Wall Kid's Dig at the Black Friary
17th & 21st August | 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Black Friary Archaeology Site, Griffin Park, Trim, Co. Meath
Young archaeologists can experience the excitement of excavation during this family friendly event at the Black Friary Archaeology Site.
Children aged four to ten can take part in a supervised Kids Dig while viewing genuine artefacts uncovered during more than fourteen years of archaeological excavations. Admission is free and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more HERE!
Heritage Week Colouring Competition
15th to 23rd August | 9:00am to 5:00pm
All Meath Libraries
Visit your local Meath library during Heritage Week and enter the Heritage Week Colouring Competition.
Complete the specially designed heritage themed colouring page for the chance to win one of several Heritage Week prizes. Winners will be selected following the close of the competition.
Find out more HERE!
Heritage Week Quiz
15th to 23rd August | 9:00am to 5:00pm
Meath Libraries
Test your knowledge by taking part in the Heritage Week Quiz at participating Meath libraries.
Answer five heritage themed questions correctly to be entered into a prize draw, with five lucky winners announced after Heritage Week.
Find out more HERE!
Guided Walk of Trim's Medieval Town Walls
18th August | 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Trim Castle Entrance, Castle Street, Trim, Co. Meath
Discover the impressive medieval defences of Trim during this guided walking tour led by archaeologist Finola O'Carroll.
Starting at Trim Castle, the walk explores the surviving town walls and defensive features that once protected one of Ireland's most important medieval settlements. Please note that some uneven ground is included along the route.
Find out more HERE!
Hands on History: Stone Age Meath
22nd August | 3:30pm to 5:00pm
Navan Library, Railway Street, Navan, Co. Meath
Learn about the Boyne Valley's extraordinary Stone Age heritage during this interactive event with Explore Archaeology.
Handle replica artefacts, discover how Newgrange, Knowth and Loughcrew were built, and explore the incredible achievements of Ireland's earliest farming communities. Suitable for ages seven and over.
Find out more HERE!
Community Archaeology Post Excavation at the Black Friary
19th & 20th August | 10:00am to 4:00pm
Black Friary Archaeology Site, Griffin Park, Trim, Co. Meath
Go behind the scenes of a working archaeological project by taking part in post excavation work at the Black Friary. Volunteers aged sixteen and over are invited to help wash and process archaeological finds recovered from the excavation. It offers a rare opportunity to contribute to ongoing archaeological research in the Boyne Valley. Places should be booked in advance.
Find out more HERE!
Special opening of Spire of Lloyd!
21st August | 12:00pm to 3:00pm
The Spire of Lloyd FREE guided tours for HERITAGE WEEK
You should only book if you are knowingly in good health and fit to do so. There are 164 steps which may be unsuitable for guests with heart conditions, recent injuries, if you are pregnant or other conditions.
Children are Free, must be accompanied by an adult, not suitable for children under 5yrs. Tours last 30 minutes!
Find out more HERE!
Heritage Week is a wonderful opportunity to experience the Boyne Valley from a new perspective. From prehistoric landscapes and medieval monuments to local museums, historic houses and community events, there are countless ways to connect with the stories that make this region so special.
Whether you're planning a family day out, looking to learn something new or simply wanting to explore more of the Boyne Valley, there's no shortage of memorable experiences waiting throughout Heritage Week 2026. Be sure to check individual event details before travelling, as some activities require advance booking.
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